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About Semi-Automatic Rifles
In Great Britain, the Firearms (Amendment) Act 1988, introduced following the Hungerford shooting, prohibited civilian ownership of semi-automatic centrefire rifles. As a result, semi-automatic rifle listings on Gunstar are predominantly .22 LR rimfire, which remains legal with a Firearms Certificate (FAC).
Popular .22 semi-autos on the UK market include the Ruger 10/22, CZ 512 and Browning SA-22, all subject to UK magazine capacity restrictions (magazines holding more than 10 rounds are prohibited). Some historical centrefire semi-automatic rifles also appear in deactivated form, which can be held as collectors' pieces without an FAC provided they carry a valid UK-specification deactivation certificate.
Buyers should always confirm the legal status of any semi-automatic rifle listing before purchasing, and seek guidance from a registered firearms dealer if uncertain.
Buying Semi-Automatic Rifles
Firearms Certificate
To buy a rifle in the UK, you need a Firearms Certificate (FAC) issued by your local police force. The FAC specifies the calibre you are authorised to hold, and any rifle you purchase must match that authorisation. If you want to add a new calibre, you will need to vary your certificate before completing the purchase.
What to check
Confirm the seller holds a valid FAC and that the rifle is listed on it. Check the barrel for UK proof marks and verify that the calibre marking matches the certificate. On second-hand guns, inspect the action for wear, the stock for damage, and ask for any available service history. Optics and moderators do not need to be listed on your FAC separately, but the rifle itself must be.
Safe storage
Your FAC will specify safe storage conditions. A gun safe that meets police guidelines must be in place before a certificate is granted. If you are adding a further rifle, confirm your safe has adequate capacity before completing the purchase.
Selling Your Rifle?
Include the calibre, action type, barrel length, and any fitted optics or moderators in your listing. Note proof marks, the condition of the barrel and action, and any service or gunsmith history. Buyers will need an FAC authorising that calibre.
Browse all rifles for sale on Gunstar.
